Walnut Creek’s AVELAR names Dave Brehmer director of operations

WALNUT CREEK — AVELAR, a Walnut Creek-based firm specializing in forensic engineering, architecture, environmental consulting, and reconstruction, has named Dave Brehmer its director of operations.

Brehmer joined the company in August 2026, according to an announcement released October 28.

In his new position, Brehmer oversees finance and accounting, human resources, information technology, facilities, and other operational functions supporting the firm’s engineering and consulting teams.

He reports to AVELAR’s managing partners.

Brehmer previously served as chief operating officer at VPTax, a Bay Area professional services company, where he spent approximately a decade in operations leadership roles.

Earlier in his career, he worked as a project engineer at Blach Construction Company. He holds a bachelor’s degree in construction management from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

“Dave has spent his career helping growing firms run better, and he started out in construction, so he already speaks our language,” said Antony Mills, AVELAR’s managing partner, in the company’s announcement.

Mills said Brehmer’s operational experience and understanding of the construction industry would support the firm’s next phase of development.

Brehmer said he was attracted to AVELAR by its employees and longstanding reputation.

“I see my role as helping make things run a little smoother behind the scenes, so our people can stay focused on doing great work,” Brehmer said.

Founded in 1976, AVELAR provides consulting and litigation-support services involving construction defects, property damage, environmental issues, and building codes.

The company is headquartered in Walnut Creek and serves attorneys, insurers, property owners, property managers, and developers throughout California and other Western states.

The appointment comes as AVELAR marks 50 years in business.

Source: AVELAR company announcement, October 28, 2026.